The field of candidates seeking to fill the Georgia House seat vacated this week by former State Rep. Ben Harbin got a lot more crowded Wednesday.

Two Columbia County businesswomen – Pat Goodwin and Jodi Lott – announced their intentions to run for the state District 122 seat, and Joe Mullins – a developer and entertainment promoter – said he was forming an exploratory committee to determine whether he would also seek the office.

Drivers can expect some delays as crews began installing sidewalks along Blue Ridge Drive on Wednesday.

“We’re using the summertime to get the sidewalks built, trying to get them done before the school session starts so the kids have somewhere to walk,” said Matt Schlachter, Columbia County Engineering Services Division director.

The $100,000 project will connect existing sidewalks near Blue Ridge Elementary School to the multi-use path on Evans to Locks Road.

Mike Frost Band featuring Lauren Meccia performing as part of the Sizzling Summer Music Series 5:30 p.m. Sunday, July 12, Columbia County Amphitheater, 7022 Evans Town Center Blvd., Evans; $6; bit.ly/1LUK7Bi

The following accounts were taken from Columbia County Sheriff’s Office incident reports:

Stray bullet hits deputy’s cruiser

A Columbia County sheriff’s deputy said that his patrol car was hit by a stray bullet over the weekend.

The deputy said while on patrol in the county late Saturday and early Sunday, the hood of his 2012 Dodge Charger patrol vehicle was damaged by what appeared to be a gunshot. The damage appeared to be unintentional and caused by a stray bullet.